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Liverpool endured a frustrating start to 2026 as it dropped points at home to Leeds United, a result and performance which underlined the team's ongoing fragilities
19:25, 01 Jan 2026Updated 19:26, 01 Jan 2026
Liverpool fans hoping the new year would offer signs that a revitalized Liverpool can lift silverware in 2026, were left bitterly disappointed on New Year's Day.
The Reds' goalless draw at home to Leeds United contained many of the shortcomings that have blighted the season so far. A lack of tempo and attacking threat were again evident, while it was Leeds who came closest to nicking it late on, as Dominic Calvert-Lewin's flicked goal was ruled offside.
Arne Slot attempted to change what had be a frustrating opening hour with five attacking substitutions in the second period, but it was to no avail. A dogged, determined Leeds held on for a point that could prove precious in the long run. Here are the major talking points from Anfield.
Right at it
There was a new look to Liverpool's right flank as Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong started a game together for the first time. The pair linked well throughout the game, combining effectively in the early on as a two Frimpong crosses were snuffed out. Playing in a more advanced role, Frimpong's direct running and drilled balls into the box were a constant threat, and Hugo Ekitike should have done better with a left-foot ball into the middle. Bradley was dangerous with his dribbling from deep and the rapid duo formed an immediate partnership with Salah out of the side.
Wirtz underwhelms
Florian Wirtz has enjoyed a major upturn in his Liverpool form recently and he impressed over the festive fixtures, against Leeds, it was a return to the levels that drew such stinging criticism in the early weeks of the season. The opposition flooded the center, making it difficult for Wirtz to create inroads. He also lost the ball too often - three times inside the opening minutes of the second period. But the German wasn't alone in offering up a subpar showing. The midfield trio of Curtis Jones, Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai offered little going forward, while Andy Robertson also wasn't at his best.
Frosty reception
This may have been Liverpool's first game of 2026, but it could well be the coldest match it plays this year. It was freezing at Anfield, with a biting wind only adding to the unseasonable playing conditions. Perhaps that, coupled with a few sore heads on New Year's Day, impacted the atmosphere. The Leeds fans took great delight in taunting the home supporters on a flat evening at Anfield, while venting their frustrations at the referee. There was also little for fans to get excited about on the pitch, particularly in a chance-shy first half.
Penalty claim denied
Ekitike was livid when referee Chris Kavanagh turned down what he felt was a clear penalty shout in the 14th minute. Ibrahima Konate's long ball in behind picked out his international teammate, who held off Jaka Bijol and advanced into the box. The Leeds defender did have his arms on Ekitike and there was certainly some grappling which distracted the forward as he shot at goal, but Kavanagh deemed in insufficient to award a spot-kick, a decision that was ratified by VAR. Ekitike and the rest of the Liverpool team were left disappointed, a view they were not shy in sharing with the officials.
How the table looks
After Manchester United and Chelsea dropped points on Tuesday, Liverpool had hoped to extend its advantage over fifth place to five points. Instead, the goalless draw means it stands at three still, while it trails third-place Aston Villa by six points.
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